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Double SAMA 2022 winner Msaki and Tubatsi Mpho Moloi (of Urban Village) recently joined forces recently for an extensive collaboration. There’s a full album yet to come, but for now they’ve delivered a sample of what you can expect from the project and “Zibonakalise” is a staggering first look. Msaki, Tubatsi – Zibonakalise Directed by Steezus x Sanaa

The track title translates as “show yourself” and serves as half prayer to the ancestors, half solution seeking to the unclarity of life. Penned in response to the pandemic and navigating the world in its gritty aftermath, “Zibonakalise” is an impressively moving offering–searingly touching in spite of any language barriers between listener and song.

Hinged on atmospheric acoustics, earthy African textures and rich vocals pegged against the blunted strum of a singular guitar, the track unspools with stripped, minimalist grace. It’s uplifting, dexterously intricate and rousing all at once.